Transfiguration: A Call to See, Listen, and Include

The Feast of the Transfiguration holds a significant place in the church year. It is a moment when we pause to reflect on the glory of Christ revealed on the mountaintop. In this story, Jesus is transformed before Peter, James, and John. His face shines, his clothes become dazzling, and the voice of God affirms, “This is my Son, the Beloved; listen to him” (Mark 9:7).

The Transfiguration bridges the seasons of Epiphany and Lent. It reminds us that the same Jesus who reveals God’s glory will also walk the road to the cross. For Lutherans, this feast is a call to see God’s presence in both light and struggle. It is an invitation to listen and follow.

A Brief History of the Feast

The Feast of the Transfiguration has roots in the early church. Christians in the East began observing it as early as the fourth century. It spread to the Western church by the ninth century. For centuries, it has been a day to celebrate the divine nature of Christ and his mission to reconcile the world to God.

Martin Luther emphasized the importance of this event. He saw it as a revelation of God’s grace and love. The glory revealed on the mountain points us to the cross, where that same love is poured out for all people.

A Lutheran Perspective on Inclusion

The voice of God at the Transfiguration says, “Listen to him.” Jesus consistently welcomed those on the margins. He extended grace to the excluded. He challenged systems that oppressed. As followers of Jesus, we are called to do the same.

For LGBTQIA+ people, the church has often been a place of exclusion and harm. Many have been told they do not belong. Yet the God revealed in Jesus calls us to a different way. In Christ, there is no division based on gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other human category. We are all beloved children of God.

The Transformation reminds us that God’s love transforms. It calls us to see the divinity in all people. It challenges us to build communities that reflect the radical inclusion of Christ. This is not an abstract idea. It is a concrete call to action in our congregations.

Practical Steps for Congregations

• Review your church’s practices. Are LGBTQIA+ people welcomed in every part of your community?

• Use affirming language in worship and teaching. Words matter. They shape how people experience God’s love.

• Listen to LGBTQIA+ voices. Their experiences can teach us how to be a more faithful church.

• Support organizations that advocate for LGBTQIA+ inclusion in faith communities.

• Confess and repent where the church has caused harm. Seek forgiveness and commit to doing better.

A Pastoral Word 

If you are LGBTQIA+, you are beloved by God. The Transfiguration is for you. God’s light shines in you. You reflect the divine. You are not excluded from the grace of Christ.

If you are a church leader or member, the Transfiguration calls you to listen and act. It reminds you that God’s glory is revealed in unexpected places. It challenges you to embody the love of Christ in every relationship.

Let the Feast of the Transfiguration move you to see Christ in the other. Let it inspire you to walk the path of love and justice. Let it remind you of the God who transforms us all.